Good Friday 

“No one, however weak, is denied a share in the victory of the cross. No one is beyond the help of the prayer of Christ. His prayer brought benefit to the multitude that raged against Him. How much more does it bring to those who turn to Him in repentance.” – St. Leo the Great

The Crucifixion- The story of Jesus' crucifixion is a difficult one for young children to understand.  We explain to children that this occurred because Jesus loves us so much and He died on the cross to make sure that our sins/poor choices are forgiven. Through our faith, we can have a new start. A cross reminds us of how much Jesus loves us.

Activity:

Look for Crosses in the world around you- a necklace, the cross beam of a telephone pole, the letter "t" etc. Each time a cross symbol is found, say a simple prayer to Jesus, thanking Him for His love. (The Lord's Prayer can also be recited)

Praying the Stations of the Cross—Did you know? That Praying the Stations of the Cross is a Lenten tradition. The stations are usually found inside churches but can be displayed outside in a park or throughout the streets.  Many people follow the trial set out and reenact the footsteps that Jesus took walking in the Way of the Cross. Often, the Stations of the Cross is an act of prayer. Catholics walk to the fourteen stations of the Way of the Cross, stopping to pray at each one.

Storytime:

You are invited to read and view stories related to Good Friday.

Scripture References:

Mark 14:43./  15:47

Matthew 26:47 / 27:66

Luke 22:47 / 23:56

John 18:1-19

Image Cards:

Stations of the Cross for Children. Adapted for children by Catherine Odell. Text from Loyola Kids Book of Everday Prayers.

Picture Story:

A Journey to New Life pg 12-13-To Know, Worship and Love, Published 2005, James Goold House Publication

Picture Story:

The Day Jesus Died-Arch Books, Published 1998, Concordia Publishing House